Kamaru Usman: UFC Legend Chasing Another Championship Run

Kamaru Usman remains one of the greatest welterweights in UFC history. Nicknamed “The Nigerian Nightmare,” Usman dominated the 170-pound division for years with elite wrestling, relentless pressure, and improving striking.

Even after losing the welterweight title, the former champion has continued to compete against the sport’s biggest names while pursuing another championship opportunity. In 2026, Usman is once again in the spotlight as he headlines a major UFC Fight Night event against former middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis in a bout with significant title implications.

Kamaru Usman UFC Career

Usman made his UFC debut in 2015 after winning The Ultimate Fighter 21. He quickly built an impressive winning streak by defeating top contenders through dominant wrestling and outstanding cardio.

His breakthrough came in March 2019 when he defeated Tyron Woodley to become the UFC Welterweight Champion.

As champion, Usman successfully defended his title against elite opponents, including:

• Colby Covington (twice)
• Jorge Masvidal (twice)
• Gilbert Burns
• Leon Edwards (first meeting)

Many MMA analysts consider his championship reign among the greatest in UFC welterweight history.

Kamaru Usman Record

As of July 2026, Kamaru Usman’s professional MMA record stands at:

• Record: 21 Wins – 4 Losses
• Knockout Wins: 9
• Submission Wins: 1
• Decision Wins: 11

His victories have come against several former champions and top-ranked contenders, making his résumé one of the strongest in modern MMA.

Kamaru Usman’s Next Fight

Usman’s next fight is a highly anticipated middleweight showdown against Dricus du Plessis at UFC Fight Night in Oklahoma City.

The matchup represents one of the biggest opportunities of Usman’s late career. A victory could move him directly into title contention at 185 pounds and potentially make him a two-division champion candidate.

UFC Fight Card

The event features several exciting matchups, with Usman serving as one of the night’s main attractions.

Main Event

• Dricus du Plessis vs. Kamaru Usman

Featured Bouts

• Jared Cannonier vs. Christian Leroy Duncan
• Additional rising prospects across multiple UFC divisions

The card has attracted significant attention because of the championship implications surrounding the main event.

Kamaru Usman Fight Odds

Sportsbooks have installed Dricus du Plessis as the betting favorite due to:

• Size advantage
• Natural middleweight frame
• Younger age
• Recent activity

Usman enters the contest as the underdog but remains one of the UFC’s most respected competitors thanks to his elite wrestling and championship experience. Betting markets still view him as a dangerous threat capable of pulling off the upset.

Greatest UFC Fights

Throughout his career, Usman has delivered memorable performances.

Tyron Woodley

Usman dominated Woodley over five rounds to capture the UFC Welterweight Championship.

Colby Covington I

One of the greatest welterweight title fights ever ended with Usman earning a fifth-round stoppage.

Jorge Masvidal II

Usman produced one of the most famous knockouts in UFC history with a devastating right hand.

Gilbert Burns

The former teammates battled in an emotional championship fight that showcased Usman’s composure.

Leon Edwards Trilogy

His rivalry with Leon Edwards included dominant victories before Edwards’ dramatic head-kick knockout changed UFC history.

Fighting Style

Usman’s game combines several elite skills:

• NCAA Division II wrestling
• Strong clinch control
• Excellent cardio
• Improved boxing
• Powerful jab
• Elite cage pressure
• Championship-level fight IQ

These qualities helped him become one of the most dominant champions in UFC history.

Career Achievements

Usman’s accomplishments include:

• UFC Welterweight Champion
• Multiple successful title defenses
• The Ultimate Fighter winner
• Numerous Fight of the Night bonuses
• Former pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter
• One of the longest winning streaks in UFC welterweight history

Can Usman Become Champion Again?

Many fans questioned whether Usman’s championship days were over after consecutive losses to Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev.

However, his impressive return victory over Joaquin Buckley reignited hopes that he could make another run at UFC gold. A win over Dricus du Plessis would significantly strengthen his case for another title opportunity.

Legacy

Few fighters have dominated the welterweight division like Kamaru Usman. His combination of wrestling excellence, championship mindset, and willingness to fight the best opponents has cemented his place among the greatest UFC champions ever.

Whether or not he captures another world title, Usman’s legacy is already secure as one of the defining fighters of his era.

FAQs

What is Kamaru Usman’s UFC record?

Kamaru Usman’s professional MMA record is 21 wins and 4 losses.

Who is Kamaru Usman’s next opponent?

His scheduled opponent is Dricus du Plessis in a UFC Fight Night main event.

What is Kamaru Usman’s nickname?

He is known as “The Nigerian Nightmare.”

Has Kamaru Usman been UFC champion?

Yes. He won the UFC Welterweight Championship in 2019 and defended it multiple times.

What are the odds for Usman’s next fight?

Most sportsbooks list Dricus du Plessis as the favorite, with Usman entering as the underdog.

Conclusion

Kamaru Usman continues to prove why he is one of MMA’s all-time greats. With a stellar 21-4 record, a legendary welterweight title reign, and another high-stakes fight on the horizon, “The Nigerian Nightmare” remains a major force in the UFC. His clash with Dricus du Plessis could determine whether one final championship run becomes reality.